Citrillune is a non-standard amino acid derived from citrullus, the watermelon, and found in high concentrations in the liver. It is created in the body as a byproduct of orinthine and carbamoyl phosphate, and arginine. Citrulline is used as a supplement to enhance athletic performance and is viewed as a complement to creatine. Citrulline is believed to enhance anaerobic performance, while creatine enhances aenerobic performance. However, Citrulline's effectiveness as an athletic performance enhancer is inconclusive.
In bodybuilding, Citrulline has been associated with higher energy and endurance through the creation of Arginine . In increasing energy levels, arginine is believed to metabolize nitric oxide, aiding cardiovascular function, muscle health and nutrient delivery. By substituting for Arginine, Citrulline supports the immune response.
For endurance, Citrullin Malate (CM) products are commonly sold in the sports enhancement market. Citrullin attaches to malic acid, an intermediate of the Krebs cycle, an energy-producing system within cells. Due to these many beneficial aspects of Citrulline, overall recuperation from sports activities has been shown to be quicker.
In the urea cycle, Citrulline assists in the removal of endotoxins, including lactic acid and ammonia. Endotoxins, produced through protein metabolism and intense physical activity, can damage liver cells. Its ability to detoxify ammonia removal in the liver helps reduce fatigue. Citrulline is also used in the treatment of urea disorders.
Additionally, Citrulline supplementation has been associated with a number of treatments, including for impotence, due its ability to convert into the amino acid arginine, thereby raising arginine levels. This assumes that arginine is an effective treatment for impotence. Preliminary studies have been undertaken linking Citrulline use to improved mental function in people with Alzheimer's disease.
It is recommended that Citrulline be taken in balance with other amino acids. As an athletic performance enhancer, it is sometimes taken in combination with creatine and arginine.
For an adult, a daily dosage of 6-18 grams of Citrulline is recommended.
Growing children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with liver or kidney disease should obtain a doctor’s approval before taking Citrulline.
Treatment of diseases and disorders, including Alzheimer’s, should be done under a doctor’s supervision.
